What safety measures should be followed during the handling and installation of standard fixing hardware?

When handling and installing standard fixing hardware, it is essential to follow safety measures to prevent injuries, ensure the proper function of the hardware, and maintain the integrity of the installation.
Wear Safety Glasses: Always wear safety goggles or face shields to protect your eyes from flying debris, sharp edges, or accidental impacts during installation.Gloves: Wear sturdy work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, friction burns, and cuts when handling hardware, especially when dealing with bolts, screws, or anchors.
Steel-toed Boots: For added foot protection, wear steel-toed boots if working in environments where heavy materials or tools might be dropped.Ear Protection: If you're using power tools to install hardware, wear ear protection to prevent hearing damage from prolonged exposure to high noise levels.
Use the Correct Tools: Ensure you use the appropriate tools for the specific hardware, such as a wrench, screwdriver, or torque wrench, to avoid damaging the hardware or the material being fixed.Inspect Tools Before Use: Check that tools are in good working condition, with no defects such as worn-out handles, rust, or damaged jaws, to prevent accidents.Tighten Fasteners Correctly: Avoid over-tightening or under-tightening fasteners. Over-tightening can cause hardware or material to fail, while under-tightening can result in weak joints. Use a torque wrench when necessary to ensure proper torque.
Proper Handling of Corrosive or Hazardous Hardware: If working with hardware that is coated or treated with chemicals (e.g., galvanized, coated for corrosion resistance), handle it with care to avoid exposure to harmful substances.Avoid Sharp Edges: Standard fixing hardware like bolts and screws often has sharp threads or edges. Always handle hardware carefully to avoid cutting or scratching yourself.
Keep Work Area Organized: Maintain a clean and organized work area to prevent tripping hazards or the loss of small parts. Keep the workspace free of clutter, and ensure proper lighting for visibility.
Use a Stable Surface: When installing hardware, ensure you are working on a stable and level surface to avoid accidents or tools slipping.Clear Debris and Waste: Dispose of scrap materials and waste promptly to prevent slipping or stumbling hazards. Use appropriate containers for disposal.
Lift with Care: If working with heavy or bulky hardware (e.g., large bolts, anchors, or fixing plates), lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid strains or injury.Use Lifting Equipment: For particularly heavy or awkwardly shaped hardware, use hoists, cranes, or other lifting equipment to prevent injury.
Check for Structural Integrity: Before installation, inspect the materials (wood, metal, concrete) where the hardware will be fixed. Ensure they are in good condition and can handle the load.Pre-drill Holes Carefully: When drilling holes for anchors, screws, or bolts, ensure that you drill to the correct depth and diameter for the hardware. Use the appropriate drill bit for the material you're working with.Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for both hardware and installation procedures to ensure that the fixing hardware performs as expected.
Avoid Using Damaged Hardware: Do not install hardware that is cracked, bent, or otherwise damaged, as it could fail during operation and lead to accidents or material failure.Ensure Proper Alignment: When installing screws, bolts, or other fasteners, ensure they are aligned correctly to avoid stripping threads or damaging the material.